Pro: When a pregnant woman who is HIV+ receives zidovudine (AZT), the chance that she will transmit HIV to her fetus is reduced by 66%. Testing for HIV, therefore, will enable doctors to determine who should get AZT to protect their offspring as much as possible from getting AIDS.
Con: Those who are labeled 'HIV+' are subjected to discrimination in housing, employment, and personal interactions. Many pregnant women who fear the consequences of being labeled 'HIV+' will avoid the health care system altogether if testing for HIV in pregnant women is mandatory.